Jeep Reveals the 2016 Wrangler Backcountry

The Jeep Wrangler is one of the last true off-road-ready SUVs on the market. Today, Jeep has revealed the details on a new, special-edition version of the 2016 Wrangler that will make its in-the-metal debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

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Known as the 2016 Jeep Wrangler Backcountry, this model highlights the winter-driving capabilities of the rugged SUV. The Backcountry starts life as a Sahara trim level, which is the midrange Wrangler trim level, but it gains front and rear powder-coated bumpers, 17-inch Rubicon wheels coated in a mid-gloss black, and a black fuel-filler door. Buyers also have the option of either Rubicon rock rails or Sahara side steps for no extra cash.

The body comes coated in one of five hues: Hydro Blue, Black, Bright White, Granite Crystal, or Xtreme Purple. The latter color option, Xtreme Purple, is exclusive to the Wrangler Backcountry. This model comes standard with a black hard top, but buyers looking for a more uniform look, can go with an optional body-color hard top.

The Backcountry model isn’t only about exterior upgrade, as the cabin also gets a few upgrades. In here, buyers can find Piano Black air-vent rings, door handles and grab bars, vinyl-rapped console lid and door armrests with Diesel Gray stitching, black McKinley leather seat bolsters, and black mesh seat inserts. Audiophiles are treated to an Alpine audio system with nine speakers, while all-weather slush mats help keep the carpet clean.

Like the Sahara it is based upon, the Backcountry model comes standard with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that cranks out 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of twist. The V-6 mates to a six-speed manual transmission of an optional five-speed auto.

The 2016 Wrangler Backcountry will hit showrooms later in November. We should learn more about this model, including its MSRP and the number of units available, during the L.A. Auto Show, which kicks off on the 15th of November.